AstraZeneca
Senior Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry)
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Senior Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry)
Senior Scientist – Synthetic Chemist (Oncology Targeted Discovery)
Location: Cambridge Biomedical Campus, DISC
Introduction To The Role
AstraZeneca is seeking a Senior Scientist-Synthetic Chemist to join our site on Cambridge Biomedical Campus. You will join the Oncology Targeted Discovery group within Early Oncology, supporting pioneering research in the synthesis of novel payloads and linker-payloads for Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs).
About The Role
This hands-on, laboratory-based role is integral to our ADC chemistry efforts. You will design and synthesise complex small molecules, developing innovative payloads and linker-payload architectures to accelerate new therapeutic options in oncology. You’ll be embedded in a collaborative team environment, driving forward experimental work and contributing to the delivery of high-impact targets.
Key Responsibilities
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Lab-Based Synthesis:
- Plan and perform multi-step synthetic routes to deliver complex payloads and linker-payload constructs with high purity and reproducibility
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Technique Proficiency:
- Apply advanced organic synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization (including NMR, LC-MS)
- Work with challenging and structurally diverse molecules
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Collaboration:
- Engage close teamwork across multidisciplinary scientists within chemistry and biology
- Share data and insights to support ADC design and optimisation
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Documentation & Safety:
- Maintain detailed experimental records and adhere to SHE (Safety, Health & Environment) standards
- Contribute to technical reports covering synthetic approaches and findings
About You
Education & Experience
- PhD in synthetic organic chemistry (or equivalent industry experience)
- Ideally, postdoctoral or industry experience in complex molecule synthesis
Technical Skills
- Extensive experience in:
- Synthetic route development
- Troubleshooting challenging chemistry
- Characterising compounds at each synthesis stage
Lab Focus
- Enjoys and excels in bench chemistry
- Thrives in a dynamic laboratory setting, including scale-up and purification of potent molecules
Communication
- Demonstrates clear scientific communication skills
- Collaborates effectively with project teams
What We Offer
Join a global leader in oncology research at the core of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus.
- Work alongside talented scientists at the cutting-edge of targeted therapies
- Contribute to impactful advances for patients
- Unique maternity cover opportunity to advance skills in complex molecule synthesis
- Expand professional network with diverse experts
- Collaborative environment combining academic rigor with industrial scale
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Why AstraZeneca
At AstraZeneca:
- Science meets bold collaborative outcomes to improve lives of those with cancer
- Learn from experts in academia and industry
- Leverage cutting-edge computational tools and rich data to advance biologics
- Empower teams to take smart risks, balancing kindness and ambition
- Direct bench contributions impact clinical advancements
Ready to apply? Submit your CV and cover letter detailing your fit for this hands-on synthetic chemistry role and availability.
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